‘Nigeria Must Not Be Sold to Dirty Money’ — Youth Coalition Urges EFCC to Stand Firm Against Corrupt Politicians
Story: written by Peterson December 15,2025
A coalition of young Nigerians has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to remain steadfast in its fight against financial corruption, urging the agency not to be swayed by political pressure or media-driven narratives.
The call comes amid claims by some opposition figures that the anti-graft agency is being deployed by the presidency to target politicians outside the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The Presidency has previously dismissed such allegations, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to democratic principles and the independence of anti-corruption institutions.
Reacting to the controversy, the group, operating under the name Coalition of Young Nigerians for the Soul of Our Future, expressed concern that some politically exposed individuals are attempting to manipulate public opinion through selective storytelling and media campaigns in order to evade accountability.
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Kimberly Saviour Gift, the coalition warned that corrupt politicians are increasingly weaponising public sentiment to weaken lawful investigations.
According to the group, “There is a recurring and dangerous pattern where public officials amass questionable wealth during or after their time in office. When scrutiny begins, they resort to emotional appeals, partial disclosures and, in some cases, outright misinformation to cast themselves as victims of persecution.”
The coalition described this strategy as a deliberate attempt to undermine institutions, distract investigators and delay justice, stressing that such practices pose a serious threat to democratic accountability.
Addressing recent claims surrounding EFCC operations, the group clarified that administrative bail granted by the Commission is discretionary and conditional, not an automatic right.
“It is misleading to suggest that bail was revoked when, in law, no effective bail existed because the clearly stated conditions were not fulfilled,” the statement said.
The coalition outlined EFCC bail requirements, including the provision of credible sureties who are serving Permanent Secretaries in federal ministries within Abuja, submission of valid identification documents, proof of property ownership in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, surrender of international passports, and regular reporting to the Commission.
It noted that in the case being referenced publicly, administrative bail was granted after interrogation but remained provisional because the conditions were acknowledged yet unmet. Despite this, the EFCC reportedly showed leniency by granting adjournments on health grounds, even in the absence of verifiable medical documentation.
The group described attempts to portray these lawful procedures as political harassment as deeply troubling, especially when such claims come from individuals with extensive legal backgrounds who understand the implications of administrative bail.
“What we are witnessing is a growing belief among some political actors that wealth accumulation, influence, philanthropy and media presence can shield them from investigation,” the coalition stated.
It urged the EFCC to ignore distractions and continue its work strictly on the basis of evidence, due process and the rule of law.
“Where conditions are breached, enforcement must follow. Where facts justify prosecution, consequences must be pursued without fear or favour,” the statement added.
The coalition also appealed to the media and the public to exercise caution and critical judgment, warning against amplifying unverified claims.
“Accountability cannot be paused because a suspect is powerful or popular. Nigeria’s future must not be sacrificed to slush funds, distorted narratives or institutional blackmail,” the group stressed.
Reaffirming its support for strong institutions, the coalition concluded by urging the EFCC to remain resolute.
“To the EFCC: remain focused, follow the money and uphold the law. History will favour institutions that stood firm over those that yielded to manipulation.”
